five Ks

Five articles of faith worn by the Khalsa, the community or order of Sikhs, all beginning with the letter ‘k’ in Punjabi. They are kesh (uncut hair), a kirpan (sword), a kara (steel bangle), kachha (under-shorts), and a kangha (comb).

The custom of kesh has led to the traditional wearing of turbans for men to keep the hair clean and tidy; facial hair is also uncut. The kangha is not only a symbol of cleanliness, used to comb the hair twice a day and keep it tidy, but also reminds Sikhs of the self-control and discipline they must have over their lives if they are to fulfil God's wishes.

The kirpan is a symbolic sword worn under the clothes to signify the Sikh willingness to defend their faith, those in need, and fight for justice. In the early years of Sikhism, physical defence against oppression was necessary, and today the spirit of the belief binds Khalsa members together for social justice.

The steel kara is a sign of eternity, worn to symbolize the unity of God and of the Khalsa. Steel is also a symbol of strength.

Wearing the kachha, rather than flowing robes or a dhoti, made fighting far easier. The kachha are both a symbol of self-control and of preparedness for adversity – the readiness to defend the faith.